Muslim Organisations Urge Indian Government to Reinstate Ban on The Satanic Verses Amid Outrage

Several Muslim groups have voiced strong opposition to the renewed sale of Salman Rushdie's controversial book, *The Satanic Verses*, in India. They have urged the central government to reinstate the ban on the book. Originally banned by Rajiv Gandhi's government in 1988, the book has reappeared on Indian bookshelves after 36 years and is currently available at Bahrisons Booksellers in Delhi-NCR.

In November, the Delhi High Court concluded proceedings on a plea challenging the ban imposed by Rajiv Gandhi's government on importing the book. The court noted that officials failed to provide the notification from October 5, 1988, leading to the assumption that it did not exist. This development has led to renewed availability of the book in India.

Muslim Organisations Demand Action

Maulana Kaab Rashidi, legal advisor for Jamiat Ulama-e-Hind AM's Uttar Pradesh unit, expressed deep concern over the book's return. He stated, "If freedom of expression hurts someone's sentiments, it is a legal offence. The Satanic Verses is a blasphemous book. Selling such a controversial book under the pretext of freedom of expression cannot be accepted in any form. It goes against the spirit of the Constitution."

Rashidi further emphasised that while India's Constitution supports freedom of expression, it does not permit actions that hurt sentiments. He remarked that resuming sales of *The Satanic Verses* is provocative and urged the government to intervene. "If the government allows it, it would amount to shirking its constitutional duties," he added.

Calls for Reinstating Ban

Maulana Yasub Abbas, general secretary of the All India Shia Personal Law Board, also criticised the book's renewed availability. He stated, "There is talk of lifting the ban after 36 years. On behalf of the Shia Personal Law Board, I appeal to the Indian government to ensure the ban remains firmly in place." Abbas believes allowing its sale threatens national harmony.

Maulana Mufti Shahabuddin Razvi, National President of All India Muslim Jamaat, highlighted concerns about potential reprints of the book in India. He noted that preparations are underway to reintroduce it after the ban expired. Razvi warned that allowing this book could disturb national peace and called for a renewed ban.

Concerns Over National Harmony

The content of *The Satanic Verses* and its author have faced significant backlash globally. Many Muslim organisations have labelled it blasphemous due to its portrayal of Islamic views and figures. Maulana Yasub Abbas stressed that mocking Islamic beliefs and insulting Prophet Muhammad can harm societal harmony.

Razvi added that no Muslim can tolerate seeing this offensive book on bookstore shelves. He demanded that the central government reimpose the ban and cautioned about potential protests from the Muslim community if it becomes widely available.

A limited stock of *The Satanic Verses* has reportedly been available at Bahrisons Booksellers recently. The situation has sparked widespread debate and calls for action from various religious leaders and organisations across India.